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A small beach town at the western edge of the Florida Panhandle, Pensacola is home to a wide range of active pursuits from sailing and swimming to fishing and kayaking. Three Pensacola skydiving centers are open to both first-timers and veteran divers. Knowing what to expect can help you choose a facility and increase your chances for an enjoyable experience.

Is Skydiving for You?

All Pensacola skydive centers require divers to be at least 18 years old. There is no upper limit, and many people continue skydiving well into their 90s. Skydiving is not classified as a strenuous sport, but it requires a basic level of physical fitness. If you suffer from any condition that might affect your performance at altitude, including heart disease or any respiratory disorder, check with your doctor before skydiving. For safety reasons, Pensacola Beach Skydiving (pensacolabeachskydiving.com) requires divers to weigh less than 220 pounds, while Florida Skydive (floridaskydive.com) sets the limit at 235 pounds.

What to Expect

In Pensacola, as in most cities around the world, the first dive is almost always a tandem jump. You will be strapped to a certified instructor who gives safety instructions and encouragement, and operates all dive equipment. All three Pensacola skydiving centers use square "ram-air" chutes, which fly at approximately 20 mph and offer a softer landing than traditional round parachutes. Wear comfortable clothing that is neither too loose nor too tight and sneakers or other secure shoes. Tie back long hair to avoid it becoming tangled. A typical skydive includes approximately 60 seconds of freefall and a total of five minutes or so under the parachute. Some dive centers allow you to take photos with your own camera during the dive, while others sell photos of the experience.

Typical Weather

Pensacola, Florida in

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The temperature in Pensacola, Florida in March tends to be very predictable, so you can generally count on the forecast and travel light.

The temperature in Pensacola, Florida in March is somewhat unpredictable, so be on the safe side and prepare for a variety of conditions.

The temperature in Pensacola, Florida in March is highly unpredictable, so use the forecast as a guide, but be ready for anything!

Skydiving Certification

Skydiving certification programs are available at Pensacola Skydiving (pensacolaskydiving.com) and Florida Skydive. Pensacola Beach Skydiving does not offer a training program because of its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico. You may choose either of two training tracks, Tandem Progression or Accelerated Free Fall. Both require four to six hours of classroom training along with a sequence of guided dives with certified dive instructors. Certified divers may dive alone for a nominal fee at virtually any skydiving center in the United States.

Choosing a Skydiving Center

All three Pensacola skydiving centers offer professional instructors and excellent safety records. Pensacola Beach Skydiving allows you to dive close to the Gulf, while Florida Skydive and Pensacola Skydiving offer dive certification programs. All three centers are similarly priced and offer a similar first dive experience, making the choice one of personal preference. Call the centers that interest you and speak with a representative, seek recommendations from a friend who has gone skydiving in Pensacola, or simply choose the center that has an opening on the day you want to go.

References

About the Author

Lisa Fritscher is a freelance writer specializing in disabled adventure travel. She spent 15 years working for Central Florida theme parks and frequently travels with her disabled father. Fritscher's work can be found in both print and online mediums, including VisualTravelTours.com. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from the University of South Florida.

Leaf Group is a USA TODAY content partner providing general travel information. Its content is produced independently of USA TODAY.